10 best local foods to try in Maldives – signature flavours of the islands

A popular choice for a Maldivian breakfast is Mashuni which relies a great deal on shredded smoked tuna that features as the primary ingredient. In terms of preparation, grated coconut is mixed into the tuna along with finely chopped onions, salt, chilli powder and a sprinkling of lime juice to give it that added kick. Mashuni can be had either with rice or the local flatbread (roshi) and in short, is a versatile dish that you will stumble upon in the archipelago.

A dish that brings together fresh tuna and yellow rice, Masbaiy is one of the most sought-after cuisines in this part of the world that makes its presence felt during family picnics or Friday lunch. Translating to ‘fish rice,’ Masbaiy utilises basmati rice, tuna, coconut milk and a host of spices including reendhoo which is included to give Masbaiy its distinct yellow colour. Often had with fish paste or a healthy green salad, Masbaiy can also be eaten on its own.

Adding to this list of dishes which is very much Maldivian is Kulhimas which retains a semblance of the island’s nation’s proud heritage. As one of the numerous traditional food types in the Maldives, Kulhimas makes excellent use of yellowfish tuna as the ingredient in chief which is the most commonly consumed fish in the country. A spicy paste which includes red chilli powder, salt, garlic, ginger and onions is mixed in with the tuna and thereafter, cooked over a low fire. Kulhimas is served with roshi and can be had come breakfast or lunchtime.

Coming across as a creamy concoction that will excite your tastebuds in no uncertain manner, Garudhiya is as intense a fish soup that you will ever have the privilege of savouring in the Maldives. While coconut milk and fresh vegetables are standout features of this fish soup, initially the tuna is cooked in water, garlic, curry leaves and chilli before being seasoned with a dash of lime and fried onions. Steamed rice complements this dish which can be found across restaurants in Maldives including those at Summer Island Maldives.

Staying on the subject of fish which is very much at the heart of the local cuisine scene, the staple titled Maldivian Fish Curry cannot be ignored when on holiday here. While a wide array of fish can be used (wahoo, yellowfin tuna), Maldivian Fish Curry can be categorised as a curry that is both spicy and flavoursome. This spice-infused creation can be enjoyed with roshi or rice.

Yet another Maldivian staple which can be found within every household is Rihaakuru. The result of cooking fish on a low flame up until the point it reaches a thick dark paste, Rihaakuru is noted for being easy to prepare and can be paired with breadfruit, rice, roti and taro.

Should you be yearning for a well-earned break from meat and fish, then why not toy with the thought of sampling some Boshi Mashuni? Also, called Banana Flower Salad, Boshi Mashuni is made with the aid of crushed banana flowers, grated coconut and a wide range of spices including chili and turmeric. The final touch is to include lime so that you can tuck into a fresh, zesty and healthy take on one of the Maldives’ most cherished types of food.

A deep-fried delicacy featuring a rice flour or wheat flour dough that will serve you well while on the go, Gulha is a Maldivian snack that is crispy and crunchy with every bite. Grated coconut, chili, onion and tuna are the primary ingredients in its filling.

The flaky and crispy Bis Keemiya is the island nation’s version of the traditional samosa. Made with tuna, chopped cabbage, eggs and spices, Bis Keemiya is an outstanding snack to indulge in as you travel through the Maldives.

For the sweet tooth in you, Saagu Bondibai is an absolute must. Sago seeds are first boiled in coconut milk and drizzled in condensed milk which gives this sweet pudding a velvety texture that is finished off with rose essence and cardamom powder.